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How to help a loved one with cancer eat well

Written By The Good Housekeeping Web team | 20 March 2017

Feeding our loved ones is an important part of showing them we care, especially when they're ill

Many people living with cancer find that their relationship with food changes, often for the worst. Loss of appetite, sickness and damaged taste buds can all impact severely on their ability to enjoy meals like they used to, while food left on plates can be frustrating for those in a caring role.

'Nausea is a common issue for people undergoing cancer treatment,' says Bupa dietician Rachel Eden. 'Some people also find that foods can taste too strong or metallic. This is because chemotherapy drugs can damage taste receptors, which makes everything taste different.'

Chemotherapy can also damage the gastrointestinal track, which is lined with fast-growing cells (the very cells chemo is so good at targeting – the trouble is, it can't differentiate between those that are healthy and those that aren't) and if this lining is damaged, it can result in a sore mouth and throat, and mouth ulcers, says cancer charity Macmillan's oncology dietician Adele Hug. 'This is where high calorie, high protein options are important, so that you're getting as much nutrition as you can in smaller quantities,' she continues. 'Include meat, fish, eggs, pulses and beans where possible, and bear in mind that snacks such as milky drinks, crisps, cheese and chocolate are often easier to stomach while boosting overall calorie intake.'

Ultimately, maintaining a healthy weight, staying hydrated and preserving muscle tissue with enough fluids, calories and nutrients will pay off, says Rachel Eden. 'It can reduce treatment delays, boost the immune system and help minimise debilitating side effects such as fatigue.' If you're looking after someone undergoing cancer treatment, here's what you need to know...

More ways to make mealtimes manageable

1. Offer small portions often

'Five or six small meals a day is much more do-able than battling through three large meals,' says Adele. 'Focus on proteins and fats, and the foods you find appealing – it doesn't matter if it's cereal for dinner or pudding for breakfast. Whatever works for you is fine.'

2. Try to maintain a regular eating pattern

Although it's tough, it's important to eat regularly, even if it's just a handful of crisps or nuts. 'Fizzy drinks can also help with nausea and are high in sugar, which can temporarily boost energy levels,' says Rachel Eden.

(Image: Getty)

3. Don't worry about 'healthy' foods

Traditional healthy eating during treatment is less important now than ensuring weight is maintained. 'Fruit and vegetables can fill you up without giving you enough nutrition if you're only eating small amounts,' says Adele Hug. John Newlands, Macmillan information nurse specialist, notes that cancer treatment can cause temporary taste changes and some patients find previous favourites unpalatable. Instead, they crave savoury and flavoursome foods, such as salt and vinegar crisps, while for others it's plain nuts, cheese, biscuits or yoghurt with honey, he continues.

It's particularly hard for parents trying to nourish their sick child to see lovingly prepared meals left on the plate but try to avoid nagging as it ramps up anxietyand creates negative connotations around mealtimes. 'Instead, praise your child for what they have eaten,' says John Newlands. 'If it's an adult you're looking after, serving convenience foods such as ready meals, tinned fruit or puddings, frozen meals and ice cream, means your patient won't have to feel guilty about not eating a meal you've slaved over for hours.'

5. When in doubt, think milk

If you're after a failsafe, nourishing, high calorie option that's easy to digest, think milk. 'Many patients find they go off meat or struggle with chewing,' says Adele Hug. 'Full-fat milk is super-nourishing and contains lots of calories andprotein. It also makes a great base for milkshakes, smoothies and hot drinks. Aim for at least a pint of full-fat milk per day.'

6. Don't use vitamin supplements without medical advice

'High-dose vitamin supplements can dampen down the effect of the chemotherapy so definitely stay away from these,' says Adele Hug. 'The majority of us should consider a vitamin D supplement during the winter months and this goes for those on chemotherapy as well. Some people may need a supplement for deficiencies like iron. If you're considering using a supplement, run it by your dietitian or oncologist.'

Other hints and tips

-Red meats are more prone to tasting metallic, so stick to white meat such as chicken or turkey. Try cooking the meat in sweeter-tasting sauces, such as sweet and sour
-Eat with a plastic knife and fork rather than metal cutlery to help reduce the metallic taste
-Often people undergoing treatment find that plain-tasting foods are easier to stomach. Try adding mashed potato or plain noodles to meals (or serve on their own)
-When cooking, use an extractor fan to help eliminate aromas, as cooking smells can make sickness worse